We were pretty tired when we arrived, having left Shanghai early in the morning, and not getting much sleep. Perhaps sensing this, our guide walked us all the way to check-in. They certainly make sure you get where you’re going…

Last time I was in Hong Kong, the airport was in the middle of the city, and you could look into people’s apartments when you landed. With the aiport having been moved, it’s less nerve-wracking, but far less exciting. Still, we found the hotel easily enough. It was raining when we arrived, a steady drizzle that blurred out the passing skyline, but it didn’t last long.

Arrived early. Stig in foul mood due to roomies shifting around through night.

Guide meets us. Took us to hotel. Asked if we want to relax, we said yes. OK, we’d get one hour.

After leaving the hotel, we hit traffic instantly. It was overcast, and you couldn’t even see where the sun was. An eclipse was about to occur as well, and all of a sudden, it was darker, the darker still, and then night fell on the city for a few minutes. It was very strange, the first total eclipse of the sun that I’ve ever experienced. The Danes we met on the train to Xian were Shanghai bound for that event specifically. They even showed us the custom glasses they were going to use.

Anyway, the heavens opened. We dropped walking around the Bund, and headed to the East side of the river instead, with the TV tower and fancy new buildings. The view was great and we managed to beat the worst of the queue. Shanghai looks like something out of a science fiction movie.

The site is a collection of musings and asides, as well as quotes and links I find interesting and/or useful. I am a keen photographer and a fan of film and literature, and the site reflects my interests.